If you’ve ever been skiing or snowboarding, you know that sliding around on snowy mountains is undoubtedly some of the most fun a gal can have. But deciding where to go, let alone sifting through the constantly growing and evolving selection of ski and snowboard gear can be downright overwhelming. Which skis do I want? How about outerwear? Will it work well for the conditions here? Fear not! To help dumb it down, your local SheJumps Ambassadors are sharing their favorite gear for the area so you can spend less time sifting through hundreds of reviews and get out there with the clothing and equipment you know works best! Used and trusted by the badass women you know and love, this is SheJumps favorite ski and snowboard gear for Utah:
Courtney Kizer – Utah
Home Base: Telluride
What’s unique about skiing in your region?
I am based out of Moab, Utah. From my hometown, I can either drive 2 hours to one of the best resorts in the world or drive 1/2 an hour to some epic touring in the La Sals (visible from downtown Moab) then catch an afternoon of mountain biking during the winter!
Where specifically do you prefer to ride and why?
Telluride is the ultimate in resort skiing. There is an abundance of steep and technical terrain without a crowd. The backcountry in the San Juan’s is as breathtaking as it is nerve wracking. There is never a dull moment in this neck of the woods!
What is your favorite run/trail at your home mountain?
Telluride is one of those mountains where you have to pay close attention to the conditions. Not just the sun, snow or wind today, but what has been going on all week (season). With a good base and a good storm, you just can’t beat a Dynamo run off Lift 14 or the hidden gem, Rockslide!! But regardless of how the season has been going, you can always have a good time under Lift 9.
Favorite skis for your region? Why? (Pick up to 3 pairs of skis)
Touring – K2 Pinnacle 105 – extremely light, poppy, fun and responsive. Resort – Atomic Backland 109 – For any condition! Enough tail and stiffness for the groomers and to cut through ice, enough width and rocker to have a blast on a powder day.
Favorite outerwear — jacket and pants — for your region? Why?
Marmot – Classy styling, quality gear. Helly Hansen / Obermeyer – The fit can’t be beat with either of these lines. Especially for someone like myself with a hard to fit body type: thin wasted with a big bum!
Favorite accessories for your region? Why?
ANYTHING Smartwool Merino Wool – From skiing, to backpacking trip, to endurance horse ride, this is the stuff that keeps you warm and wont hold a stench. Hestra Wool Liners – Again, its about versatility. I can run or bike in these when its cold and they are great for ski touring.
Secret(s) to thriving as a skier/snowboarder in your region?
Flexibility. You never know when it will be your day to get on the slopes. As a working small business owner, I have to pick and choose when to jump on the snow. I hold out for the best snow, best conditions, or best company.
Jennifer Cantwell – Utah
Home Base: Alta
What’s unique about skiing in your region?
Proximity to the city and the blower pow.
Where specifically do you prefer to ride and why?
Alta for the terrain and the Wasatch backcountry for the access and variety.
What is your favorite run/trail at your home mountain?
Hard choice, there are so many good ones. If I had to choose probably Baldy Main Chute.
Favorite skis for your region? Why? (Pick up to 3 pairs of skis)
Resort: Blizzard Sheeva for the versatility in all conditions from powder to crud to the groomers. Touring: Black Diamond Carbon Convert also for versatility while not being too heavy or too light (most of the time).
Favorite outerwear — jacket and pants — for your region? Why?
For touring Jacket: Patagonia Dual Aspect Hooded Softshell Jacket for protection from the elements while being able to vent Pants: Mammut Women’s Traleika Softshell Hiking Pants since I run hot while touring these are thin enough for high output activity.
Favorite accessories for your region? Why?
Bolder Band for ear warmth while touring and under any helmet. Dynafit Windstopper Vest for core warmth and protection (however they don’t make this in women’s!)
Secret(s) to thriving as a skier/snowboarder in your region?
Dawn patrols! Ski and still get into work relatively on time.
Still have questions about ski/snowboard gear?